Return Leg (2nd February 2020): Uganda vs Tanzania – StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo
Uganda U-20 women team scored a crucial away goal in the 2-1 loss away to Tanzania during the first leg of the preliminary round of the 2020 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers played at National Stadium, Dar es Salaam saw the hosts edge Uganda 2-1 to take advantage in the tie.
Juliet Nalukenge gave Uganda the lead but the hosts rallied back to net through Diana Msewa and Clement Opa.
Lillian Mutuuzo in action against Tanzania at the National Stadium, Dar es salaam
The return leg will be played at the StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo in Kampala on 2nd February 2020.
The winner on aggregate will play either Senegal or Sierra Leone at the next stage.
Uganda U-20 national team head coach Oliver Mbekeka has named the starting team that will face Tanzania in the first leg of the FIFA U-20 Women World Cup final at the National Stadium, Dar es salaam on Saturday.
Juliet Adeke starts in goal. The backline has Stella Musibika, Asia Nakibuuka, Aisha Namukisa and Shadia Nankya.
Teddy Najjuma, Lillian Mutuuzo, Phiona Nabbumba and Margret Kunihira are all part of the crowded midfield.
Fauzia Najjemba and Juliet Nalukenge will lead the primary role to seek for the goals.
The return leg will be played at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo next weekend.
Head coach Oliver Mbekeka (left) and assistant Christine Wanyana share ideas during the last training session at the National Stadium in Dar es salaam on Saturday
Uganda U-20 Starting XI Vs Tanzania (Shirt Numbers in Brackets)
Tanzania vs Uganda – Sunday 19th January 2020 (Dar es Salaam)
Uganda National U20 Women Football team technical staff has released the final team that will travel to Dar es Salaam to take on Tanzania in the first leg of FIFA U20 Women World Cup Qualifiers.
Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals FC)1 is the team captain assisted by Shakirah Mutibwa (Asubo Gafford Ladies FC1) and Juliet Adeke (Kawempe Muslim Women Ladies FC ) as first and second assistant Captains respectively.
The team will travel on Friday 17th January aboard Uganda Airlines Flight Number UR320 at 2 PM and arrive at 3:30 PM.
The team has been in a residential training camp for 8 days at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
Smiling faces after the girls’ last training session at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru on Thursday.1
Uganda will play against Tanzania on Sunday at Chamanzi Stadium before meeting on 1st February 2020 at StarTimes stadium for the return leg.
Oliver Mbekeka is the head coach of the Uganda U20 Women National team.
‘We are set and very ready for the game. Our target is not just to win but with many goals because this being a two legged affair we need to score as many goals as possible that maybe helpful going into the second leg. I know our opponents are not easy when facing Uganda but we shall do our best to secure good results’ noted Mbekeka.
Head Coach Oliver Mbekeka
The winner over the two legs will play the either Senegal or Sierra Leone in the second round of the qualifiers.
Six players from the U17 women team have made the cut into the final squad of the Uganda U20 travelling on Friday. These are; Juliet Nalukenge, Fauzia Najjemba, Margret Kunihira, Musibika Stella, Naddunga Bira and Namusisi Joan.
The Uganda U17 female players celebrate the first goal scored against Ethiopia by captain Juliet Nalukenge
Travelling Squad:
Goalkeepers: Juliet Adeke (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Namusisi Joan ( Mukono HS).
Defenders: Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals), Stella Musibika (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Grace Aluka (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Aisha Namukisa (Kampala Queens FC),and Nadunga Bira (Olila HSC)
Midfielders: Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporates FC), Teddy Najjuma (UCU Lady Cardinals), Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Anita Namata (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Shakira Mutiibwa (Asubo Gafford Ladies FC),
Due to the changes in the schedule of the 2021 AFCON Final Tournament in Cameroon from June to January, the qualifying fixtures for Uganda Cranes and other African Countries were adjusted by the football governing body on the African Continent (CAF).
Uganda Cranes will now play back to back against South Sudan between 23rd – 31st March 2020. The two games were meant to be played between 31st August and 8th September 2020.
However, the match against Burkina Faso that was slated for October 2020 is now scheduled between 1st – 9th June 2020.
In the last qualifying Group match, Uganda will play Malawi away between the dates of 31st August and 8th September 2020.
Uganda Cranes is unbeaten in Group B after 2 games played against Burkina Faso (0-0) away and Malawi (2-0) at home. The results put Uganda in rhe driving seat with 4 points and a better 2 goal difference over Burkina Faso in the second position (also 4 points).
After the confirmation of the changes in fixtures by CAF, Uganda Cranes will have a busy schedule in March for both the Senior A-Team and the local-based CHAN Team that will be playing the final tournament in the same month in Cameroon.
AFCON 2021 Group B remaining Fixtures
Match Day 3 & 4
23rd – 31st March 2020 Uganda Vs South Sudan
South Sudan Vs Uganda
Match Day 5
1st – 9th June 2020 Uganda vs Burkina Faso
Match Day 6
31st August – 8th September 2020
Malawi vs Uganda
The Changes also affected the start of FIFA 2022 World Cup Qualifiers which have now been switched from March to October 5th-13th 2020.
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes Team that started in the game against Malawi
Twenty-three FIFA Referees have received their Badges at a ceremony presided over by the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo on Wednesday morning at Jevine Hotel, Kampala.
Beaming with smiles L_R Nakitto Marex Nkumbi (Assistant Referee) and Nabadda Shamirah (Referee) show off their badges at Jevine Hotel
While addressing the referees, the FUFA President congratulated the referees but also took time to highlight on the three Rs which are Recognising, Reporting and Resisting in cases for predetermined matches.
‘I congratulate all of you and we are grateful for the work you do as international referees for representing Uganda. Our interest is to make sure that we have referees who have integrity, fitness and performance. International referees shouls be exemplary to the rest of national and regional referees so as to deliver the function refereeing to perfection. FUFA will try to protect the image of international referees but it is also important to carry the brand of FUFA wherever you go. It is our objective as FUFA that you keep healthy and fit. Therefore, we were motivated to have the health insurance cover including international referees and I would like to give credit to the Chairman UFRA for pushing this idea. I also advise you that it is very important to involve yourself in the game of football beyond refereeing in terms of what you can do while in retirement. The game would like to retain its people but only those who have a value addition. As a referee you need to Recognise, Report and Resist (3Rs) for any suspiscion on predetermined matches’
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo while addressing the referees at Jevine Hotel, Rubaga
Ronnie Kalema Chairman Uganda Football Referees Association (UFRA) and FUFA Referees Standing Committee (FRSC)
‘In order to fulfil FUFA’s vision of Becoming the Number one football Nation in Africa on and off the field, it has been noted that the referees have to be part & partial of project FIFA 2026 World Cup. At the international level Uganda is competing well as our referees were appointed to officiate at various high profile tournaments. Shamira Nabadda was at FISU Games in Italy, Ssali Mashoud at the AFCON U17 and Okello Dick at U20 AFCON & Junior tournaments. We have for the last one year delivered all competitions with pride and our 2020 program is to support the FIFA Referees attain higher grounds at Africa & the world at large. I thank FUFA for including all the international referees on FUFA Insurance cover program.
Ronnie Kalema (L) handing over FIFA badge to Beachsoccer referee Kawagga Bazirio Kennedy
FUFA Deputy CEO- Football Decolas Kiiza also addressed the referees
‘In the year concluded a number of milestones were registered in the referees’ department. We have an increment from 22 to 23 international referees and amongst these six have received the FIFA badge for the first time. We organised several refereeing courses at regional, national levels, got involved in continental and international courses . We are looking forward to replicate the same this year. We thank the FUFA EXCOM for approving the proposal to improve referees’ welfare and thus we reduced the number of the Uganda Premier League officials to twenty centre referees and thirty assistants’
The new recipients of the FIFA badges are; Madanda Ronald (Referee), Mulindwa Hakim (Assistant Referee), Okudra Emmanuel (Assistant Referee), Nsubuga Brian Emmy and Sengendo Isaac (Futsal Referees) while Atuhaire Docus bounces back on the list as Woman Assistant referee.
The Full list of Uganda FIFA referees for the year 2020;
Male referees: Ssali Mashood, Muhabi Alex, Sabilla Ali Chelangat, Oloya William and Ronald Madanda
Referees in a group photo after the event at Jevine Hotel
Futsal Referees: Nsubuga Brian Emmy, Sengendo Isaac
Beach Soccer: Kintu Ivan Bayige, Mugerwa Shafic, Ssenteza Muhammad and Kawagga Bazirio Kennedy
Futsal and Beach soccer referees with the FUFA President L-R; Nsubuga Brian Emmy(Futsal), Ssenteza Muhammad (Beach soccer), Kintu Ivan Bayige (Beach Soccer), FUFA President, Kawagga Bazirio Kennedy (Beach Soccer) and Ssengendo Issac (Futsal)
Women referees: Nabadda Shamirah and Murungi Diana
Women Assistant referees: Nantabo Lydia Wanyama, Nakitto Marex Nkumbi, Mutonyi Jane and Atuhaire Docus
Female referees and Assistants with the FUFA President L-R; Nabadda Shamirah (Referee), Nakitto Marex Nkumbi(Assistant Referee), Murungi Diana(Referee), FUFA President, Atuhaire Docus(Assistant Referee), Nantabo Lydia Wanyama(Assistant Referee) and Mutonyi Jane(Assistant Referee)
It is advantage Uganda prior to the return leg of the FIFA U17 Women World Cup qualifier away in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
This followed a 2-0 home over Ethiopia during the first leg played at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo in Kampala on Saturday, 11th January 2020.
A goal in each half from team captain Juliet Nalukenge and second half substitute Catherine Nagaddya inspired the Ugandan youngsters.
The Uganda U17 female players celebrate the first goal scored by captain Juliet Nalukenge (Holding boot)
Nalukenge headed home the first goal after just four minutes from Fauzia Najjemba’s cross on the right flank before Nagaddya’s second with five minutes to play.
Uganda would have earned their second goal on 11 minutes but Hadijah Nandago’s goal was disallowed by Sudanese referee Khadmallah Angato Koko for off-side.
Fauzia Najjemba dribbles during the game
Two minutes into the second half, Shakira Nyinagahirwa became the first player to be cautioned for a malicious foul.
Uganda’s goalie Daphine Nyayenga was fully alert with the rest of the defenders to tame any damage until Nagaddya found the second goal from another Najjemba’s cross, this time on the left.
The return leg will be held between 20th and 25th January 2020.
The winner on aggregate over the two legs will face either Tanzania or Burundi in the next round.
Uganda U-17 XI
Team Line Ups:
Uganda U-17 Starting XI Vs Ethiopia (Shirt Numbers in Brackets)
At least fifty aspiring football coaches started their beginners’s course at the St Henry’s College Kitovu in Masaka on Friday, 10th January 2010.
The five day course was officially opened by the FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Mulindwa, who represented the FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo.
Mulindwa addressing the participants
This training fully funded by FUFA has attracted 50 participants from the districts of Masaka (16), Rakai (8), Kyotera (9), Lwengo (8) Kalungu (1) and Bukomansimbi (8).
Three of these participants are females.
Cissy Najjuuko, one of the three female participants
The FUFA President offered this course following deteriorating standards where only Masaka and Kyotera districts are currently playing the 4th Division League in the whole zone. Zone 4 has nine (9) districts.
Mulindwa outlined a number of achievements registered by FUFA in 2019 that included winning several championships and qualifying for CHAN among many others.
He commended the Fufa President for offering this course and urged the trainees to attach more time to it.
The participants in a theory part of the workshop during a classroom session. The course has practical and theory part
The host Headteacher Bro Augustine Mugabo commended FUFA for developing the game of football and pledged to host more FUFA events if granted the opportunities in future.
FUFA delegates Sam Mpiima and Semutono together with the Regional CEO Brian Ssejemba accompanied the FUFA Executive Committee member.
The course closes on January 14.
Some of the participants enjoy a light moment moments after the official opening ceremony
Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m, FUFA TV & All Official FUFA social media plat forms.
The Uganda U-17 national women team head coach Ayub Khalifa has confirmed the 18 man team to face Ethiopia in a FIFA World Cup qualifier at Lugogo, Kampala.
Daphine Nyayenga starts in goal posts ahead of Joan Namusisi.
The 10 outfield players include Samalie Nakachwa, Sumaya Komuntale Bira Nadunga, Stellah Musibika, Kevin Nakacwa, Margret Kunihira, Shakira Nyinagahirwa, Hadijja Nandago, Fauzia Najjemba and team skipper Juliet Nalukenge.
Uganda U17 XI vs Ethiopia
It is a rich bench that awaits to come on at any stage of the game given need and urgency.
Among the substitutes include; Joan Namusisi, Catherine Nagadya, Gillian Akandinda, Gloria Namugerwa, Patricia Akiror, Zaituni Namaganda and Zaina Nandede.
Uganda U-17 Starting XI Vs Ethiopia (Shirt Numbers in Brackets)
…………………………..
1. Daphine Nyayenga (1)
2. Samalie Nakachwa (9)
3. Sumaya Komuntale (5)
4. Bira Nadunga (17)
5. Musibika Stella (14)
6. Kevin Nakacwa (11)
7. Kunihira Margret (6)
8. Shakira Nyinagahirwa (8)
9. Juliet Nalukenge (10)
10. Nandago Hadijja (12)
11. Fauzia Najjemba (13)
Ugandan football fans are set to be treated to an entertaining brand of football if coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi’s words are anything to go by.
According to the national U17 Women team head coach, his team is very much prepared to pass the Ethiopian test in the first leg of the FIFA U17 Women World Cup qualifiers first round fixture on tomorrow at the Star Times stadium, Lugogo.
Kiyingi made the remarks after conducting the final training session on Friday afternoon.
‘We are set and very ready for the game. Our target is not just to win but with many goals because this being a two legged affair we need to score as many goals that maybe helpful going into the second. I don’t know much about our opponents because they chose not to participate in the CECAFA U17 Women Challenge Cup late last year but our assumption is that their style doesn’t so much differ from how the senior team plays that is to say with short passed. Nevertheless we are ready for whatever they will throw at us.‘ Khalifa noted.
Head coach Ayub Khalifa goes through the paces with the U-17 players in a training session
The return leg of this fixture is set to be played on January 26th in Addis Ababa when Ethiopia hosts.
The winner over the two legs will play the winner between Tanzania and Burundi in the second round.
Uganda has played a mouth-watering 10 games since September last year losing none. The team has won 8 and drawn 2 games.
The National U20 women football team, embarked on serious training on the very first day Of Friday morning, after entering residential camp on Thursday evening at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The is in preparation for the FIFA U20 Women World Cup Qualifiers against Tanzania U20 in Dar es Salaam scheduled for Saturday 18th January 2020.
Shakirah Mutibwa during training
A team of 30 players was summoned and is being handled by head coach Oliver Mbekeka, assisted by Christine Wanyana, Ibrahim Mugisha (Goalkeeping coach).
Goalkeeping coach Ibrahim Mugisha talking to the girls
Five(5) of the 30 are yet to report to camp as they still have another engagement with U17 Women National Team that will clash with Ethiopia U17 in the FIFA U17 Women World Cup Qualifiers on Saturday 11th January 2020 at StarTimes Stadium, Lugogo.
qualifier first leg tie against Tanzania away in Dar es Salaam on January 18, before the return leg later in Kampala.
‘We have started on a slow note because it has been a while since we came together, but by the end of the seven days that we have here, the players will have picked up the needed grades’ said Mbekeka said.
L-R; Ibrahim Mugisha, Wanyana Christine and Oliver Mbekeka
Mbekeka however, expressed the challenge on the fitness level of players, this is the reason why much of the emphasis was on physical training on the sand.
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has officially opened up registration for the 4th edition of the FUFA Women’s Cup for all Clubs across the Country.
The registration fees for FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women’s Elite League are Ug. Sh. 100,000.
The regional league teams will each pay Ug. Sh. 70,000 while non-league teams will register at a fee of Ug. Sh. 150,000.
Payments are made through the FUFA Ecobank Bank Account Number 0060096105476004 (Ndeeba Branch).
The process for registration is to run for 19 days and will end on 31st January 2020 however draws.
The fixture will be organized and released by the 12th February 2020.
Meanwhile, only Clubs that will fulfill the registration process by 31st January shall have the mandate to take part in the Competition.
Brief History:
Makerere University Women Football Club is the reigning cup holder after successfully winning the trophy in the final against Lady Doves FC.
Olila High School won the 1st edition in 2017 in Busia, UCU Lady Cardinals lifted the 2nd edition in Sheema Bushenyi before Makerere University grabbed their first-ever football trophy in 2019.
Lady Doves midfielder Leticia Nabbosa was the MVP of the 1st edition, UCU Lady Cardinals striker Maureen Kinavudori took the MVP of the 2nd edition and Makerere University play-maker Aminah Nababi was named MVP in the previous competition.
Fazila Ikwaput playing for Olila in 2017 finished as the top scorer of the 1st edition with 5 goals, In 2018 Sharuwah Nakayima of Bugiri Town View was the top scorer whereas defender Shadia Nankya finished at the top with 7 goals in 2019.
MAIN PHOTO: Makerere University Women Football Club players and officials celebrate their FUFA Women Uganda Cup triumph in 2019
FIFA U-17 Women World Cup Qualifiers (Saturday, 10th January 2020)
First Leg: Uganda Vs Ethiopia
At Star Times Stadium, Lugogo (4:00 PM)
Uganda takes on Ethiopia in the first leg of the first round of the FIFA U17 Women World Cup 2020 at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo this Saturday on January 11th, 2019.
The team this morning switched base from the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru where it has camped since Friday, January 3rd, 2019.
After conducting the morning training session at the Star Times Stadium, Lugogo, the team checked-in at the Cranes Paradise Hotel in Kisaasi where it is accommodated until after the game.
Uganda Women U-17 head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi
In his remarks, Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi emphasized the importance of scoring and winning with a handsome goal margin.
This will will take pressure off the team ahead of the return leg. The session at Lugogo on Thursday majorly focused on building and executing attacks.
‘We want to score and win the game with as many goals on Saturday because a bigger scoreline will relieve us of any pressure going into the return leg away from home. Overtime in camp we have touched almost every detail but today, and in our last training session tomorrow emphasis will be centered on attacks because we need those goals and in plenty’ Khalifa noted.
Uganda U17 players stretch
The return leg will be played in a fortnight in Addis Ababa.
The winner over both legs progress will progress to the next round to face between Burundi and Tanzania in the second round.
FUFA has confirmed the entry charges for the FIFA U17 World Cup Qualifier first leg match between Uganda and Ethiopia to be played on Saturday 11th January 2020 at the StarTimes Stadium Lugogo.
During the Weekly Press Conference at FUFA House, FUFA Deputy CEO (Football) Decolas Kiiza established that the prices will range from Sh. 5000 for Ordinary, Sh. 20,000 for VIP and Sh. 50,000 for VVIP.
However, Kiiza stated that there will be no free entrance to any stakeholder since it is a development team that will need to generate funds for the success of the project to the final tournament in India due November this year.
On the same issue, Kiiza confirmed that the FUFA President and his Executive Committee will also pay for the entrance.
FUFA Deputy CEO (Football) Decolas Kiiza talking to the press during the FUFA Weekly Press Conference at FUFA House
‘In view of the fact that it is a development team, we shall not allow free entrance for anybody at Lugogo. We have got assurance that the FUFA President and his Executive Committee will also pay for the match so as to be able to generate resources’notedFUFA Deputy CEO Decolas Kiiza.
The Uganda U17 team won the inaugural CECAFA Championship in December and had earlier emerged Champions in the inaugural COSAFA U17 Championship in Mauritius.
Ethiopia U17 Women team is expected to land in the country on Thursday.
The Match will Kick off at 4:00pm EAT.
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda XI that started against Kenya in the final match of CECAFA Girls U17 Championship
FUFA has released a provisional squad of 30 players that will start preparations for FIFA U20 Women World Cup Qualifier 1st leg match against Tanzania on 18th January 2020 away in Dar es Salaam.
Olive Mbekeka has been appointed to serve as the head coach, assisted by former Crested Cranes captain Christine Wanyana. Ibrahim Mugisha takes on the goalkeeping coach role on the team while Mable Kabatalindwa is the Team Doctor.
FUFA has been kept busy into the new year as the Uganda U17 Women team is also in camp preparing for a world cup qualifier against Ethiopia due this weekend at Lugogo.
L-R Prossy Nalwadda, Mable Kabatalindwa, Olive Mbekeka, FUFA Deputy CEO (Football) Decolas Kiiza, Christine Wanyana and Ibrahim Mugisha after the FUFA weekly Press Conference on Wednesday at FUFA House.
The squad will immediately enter camp this Thursday 9th January at the FUFA Technical Centre Njeru.
However, most of the players in the squad have already featured for the Senior National Team ‘The Crested Cranes’ and also the U17 Girls Team.
Nankya Shadia, Grace Aluka, Alupo Norah, Aisha Namukisa, Zaina Namuleme, Lillian Mutuuzo, and Nabbumba Phiona are the notable regular players on the Crested Cranes team that made it to the list.
Margaret Kunihira, Juliet Nalukenge, Fauzia Najjemba, Stella Musibika and goalkeeper Daphine Nyayenga who play for the Uganda U17 Girls National Team were also summoned.
Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC captain Mariam Nakabugo is part of the squad together with teammates Asia Nakibuuka, Anita Namata, Sharon Nadunga, Shamirah Nalugya, and goalkeeper Juliet Adeke.
Brief U20 background:
This is the second time Uganda is taking part in the FIFA U20 Women World Cup qualifiers. The first appearance in the qualifiers was in 2013 with a tremendous 22-0 aggregate win over South Sudan.
Sandra Nabweteme and Hassifa Nassuna are the current active players in the Senior Team that played for the U20 team in 2013. They both scored a hattrick in the return leg at Lugogo Stadium on 28th September.
Defenders: Shadia Nankya (UCU Lady Cardinals), Stella Musibika (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Mariam Nakabugo (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Fatuma Nakasumba (Kampala Queens FC), Grace Aluka (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Elizabeth Nakigozi (Muteesa II Royal Univ WFC), Eunice Ariokot (Olila HS WFC) and Aisha Namukisa (Kampala Queens FC).
Midfielders: Phiona Nabbumba (She Corporates FC), Teddy Najjuma (UCU Lady Cardinals), Sharon Naddunga (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Zaina Namuleme (Kampala Queens FC), Aisha Nantongo (St. Noa SS), Anita Namata (Kawempe Muslim LFC), Moureen Afoyo (Ajax Queens FC), Shakira Mutiibwa (Asubo Gafford Ladies FC), and Joan Nabirye (Asubo Gafford Ladies FC).
Uganda Cranes official sponsors Airtel fulfilled their promise to the living legends of the 1978 Uganda Cranes Legends team with a 4G smartphone each who attended the 2019 Airtel FUFA Awards in Munyonyo.
The function held at FUFA House on Monday morning was presided over by the FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha and the FUFA CEO Edgar Watson.
Airtel Uganda was represented by Head of Public Relations Sumin Namaganda.
L-R Airtel Head of Public Relations Sumin Namaganda and FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha during the function
Representing the 1978 legends were Ashe Mukasa, Barnabas Mwesiga, Paul Ssali, and Abbey Nassur.
In his address, the FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha thanked Airtel for recognising the football icons who represented Uganda at the 1978 AFCON and urged all football lovers to support Airtel.
FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha during the function
‘We thank Airtel for the endless support to football. It is such a great gesture to recognise the football icons in addition to sponsoring the Uganda Cranes, Regional tours, Airtel Rising Stars and the FUFA Awards. I urge all Ugandans especially football lovers to support Airtel because they also inject in the beautiful game’ Said Mugisha.
L-R Paul Ssali and Abbey Nasur after receiving their Smartphones
Meanhile Sumin Namaganda on behalf of Airtel applauded the legends for the heroic display during the 1978 AFCON in Ghana and expressed her gratitude for having an opportunity of rubbing shoulders with the icons because many people weren’t born then to watch them play.
Bernabas Mwesiga receiving a smartphone from FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha
‘During the Airtel FUFA Awards 2019 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the Airtel Uganda Managing Director VG Somasekhar made a commitment to honor the 1978 legends who turned up at the event in Munyinyo and I am here to fulfill his pledge. We are graciously happy to have some of them now and we promise to keep honoring you. Airtel Uganda will continue supporting football in Uganda because we believe it is the tenacity that will take this country to another level. We shall continue our sponsorships to football in Uganda and partnerships’ said Namaganda
Airtel Head of Public Relations Sumin Namaganda making her speech after fulfilling the pledge
Speaking on behalf of the 1978 Uganda Cranes squad, Ashe Mukasa appreciated FUFA for organising the Airtel FUFA Awards and inviting them to attend the function from which Mr. VG Somasekhar made his promise.
Ashe Mukasa receiving his phone from FUFA Vice President Justus Mugisha
‘On behalf of the 1978 Uganda Cranes squad, I thank FUFA for the invitation to the Airtel FUFA Awards. We also thank Airtel for the gifts and promise to stick to the brand because it is the only way we can express our real gratitude’ Said Mukasa
MAIN PHOTO: Airtel and FUFA officials in a group photo with Uganda Cranes 1978 legends
Uganda Vs Ethiopia – Star Times Stadium, Lugogo (4 PM)
The national U17 women team players are relishing the opportunity to play in a FIFA World cup and can’t wait to give their best shot in the ultimate qualifiers.
Uganda U17 Girls in a warm-up drill at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru on Sunday
The recently crowned CECAFA champions are in camp at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru preparing to take on Ethiopia in the first-ever FIFA U17 Women World Cup qualifier on Saturday at the StarTimes stadium.
According to team captain Juliet Nalukenge who is the reigning Airtel FUFA awards female player of the year the team is very grateful to FUFA for continuously availing them with opportunities to play and develop as a team.
Prior to their CECAFA glory, the team had previously participated and won the inaugural COSAFA U17 girls championship in Mauritius.
‘On behalf of my teammates I want to thank the federation for giving yet another opportunity by registering us to take part in the FIFA U17 Women World Cup 2020 qualifiers. We can only do one thing to express our gratitude; giving it our best shot. We are geared towards performing well and promise to do our very best to see to it that we qualify.’ Nalukenge remarked after the morning training session on the second day of the residential camp.
‘Playing in the world cup qualifiers is a grand opportunity that is going to help us develop as a team and individually as players. We are looking forward to the experience which we believe will be a good one.’ Nalukenge added.
The players in a warm up drill
The team under coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi, deputized by Hadijja Namuyanja. Oliver Mbekeka and James Magala are the other members of the technical bench serving as fitness and goalkeepers’ coaches respectively whereas Joan Namusisi is the team manager.
According to head coach Ayub Khalifa, the morning training session on day II mainly focused on tactical play and concentration in the 3rd half of the pitch that is aimed at sharpening the minds of players and help them make quick and efficient decisions to execute attacks that will deliver the goals that the team will need to advance as far as they can and even qualify.
Team work in the residential camp at Njeru is exemplified by the uniformity and courage by the players
Uganda Vs Ethiopia – Star Times Stadium, Lugogo (4 PM)
The Uganda national U17 women team has today morning embarked on on-field preparations for the FIFA U17 Women World Cup 2020 qualifiers at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru where the team is camping.
Uganda plays Ethiopia in the first round with the first leg of the 2 legged fixture due to be played in Kampala next Saturday on January 11th, 2020 at the Star Times stadium, Lugogo and the return leg a week later in Ethiopia.
The Uganda U-17 girls in training at FUFA Technical Centre, NjeruThe Uganda U17 girls in training
The team reported to camp last evening and after conducting their first training session this head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi was pleased with the response of his players.
`Being that they have been off, I expected their fitness levels to be a bit down so in today’s session we majorly focused on assessing and improving their fitness after which we did some ball works but on the whole I am pleased they are not badly off. We are going to build on that in the following sessions.’ Khalifa noted.
The team will conduct another session in the evening at 4 PM.
Uganda U17 girls team in a prayer session
Full Summoned Team:
Goalkeepers:Daphine Nyayenga (Uganda Martyrs HS), Joan Namusisi (Mukono HS) and Nyamita Zulaika (Asubo Gafford Ladies WFC)
Others: Juliet Nalukenge (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Akadinda Gillian (Olila High School WFC), Namugerwa Goria ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Musibika Stella (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Akiror Patricia (Masaka SS), Komuntale Sumayah (King of kings ), Nakacwa Samalie (Kawempe Muslim), Nadunga Bira (Olila High School WFC),Nakacwa Kevin ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Nangonzi Maureen ( Mukono High), Nyinagahirwa Shakirah (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Odaru Immaculate ( Mukono High ) Nagayi Eva ( Rines Secondary School), Kyomuhendo Sumaya ( Isra Soccer Academy), Nakayenga Brenda (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Adokole Esther (Amus College), Kunihira Margret ( Kawempe Muslim WFC), Munyana Brenda ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Nagadya Catherine ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Nandede Zainah (Amus College), Namaganda Zaitun (Taggy High School), Nyakato Ruth (Tooro Queens WFC), Nandago Hadijah (Isra Soccer Academy), Amonding Mercy (Bishop Secondary School)
Oliver Mbekeka (left) with head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi
Uganda Vs Ethiopia – Star Times Stadium, Lugogo (4 PM)
Uganda U17 Women’ National Team Head coach Ayub Khalifa has released a provisional squad of 30 players that will begin preparations for the Women World Cup Qualifiers first round slated for 11th January 2020 in Uganda.
CECAFA Women U17 valuable player Fauzia Najjemba and Airtel FUFA Women Football of the year Nalukenge Juliet are part of the summoned squad.
Airtel FUFA MVP Juliet Nalukenge is part of the team
There are other players who were part of the teams that lifted COSAFA U17 Women trophy in Mauritius and CECAFA U17 Women trophy in Njeru.
However, Ayub Khalifa has summoned some new faces that were not part of the CECAFA team and these include St.Noah striker Allen Nasaazi and teammate Kigongo Angella Auchi.
Uganda women U17 National Team Head Coach Ayub Khalifa
The players will officially begin residential training on Friday 3rd January at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
Full Summoned Team:
Goalkeepers:Daphine Nyayenga (Uganda Martyrs HS), Joan Namusisi (Mukono HS) and Nyamita Zulaika (Asubo Gafford Ladies WFC)
Others: Juliet Nalukenge (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Akadinda Gillian (Olila High School WFC), Namugerwa Goria ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Musibika Stella (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Akiror Patricia (Masaka SS), Komuntale Sumayah (King of kings ), Nakacwa Samalie (Kawempe Muslim), Nadunga Bira (Olila High School WFC),Nakacwa Kevin ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Nangonzi Maureen ( Mukono High), Nyinagahirwa Shakirah (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Odaru Immaculate ( Mukono High ) Nagayi Eva ( Rines Secondary School), Kyomuhendo Sumaya ( Isra Soccer Academy), Nakayenga Brenda (Kawempe Muslim WFC), Adokole Esther (Amus College), Kunihira Margret ( Kawempe Muslim WFC), Munyana Brenda ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Nagadya Catherine ( Uganda Martyrs HS), Nandede Zainah (Amus College), Namaganda Zaitun (Taggy High School), Nyakato Ruth (Tooro Queens WFC), Nandago Hadijah (Isra Soccer Academy), Amonding Mercy (Bishop Secondary School).
